Pura Maduwe Karang

About Pura Maduwe Karang

Written by the Bali Saku Raba local team · Last verified September 2026

Pura Maduwe Karang, also written as Pura Meduwe Karang, is a historic temple in Kubutambahan, Buleleng, North Bali. It is valued for its richly carved stonework, distinctive northern Balinese style, and connection with agricultural communities. The temple offers a focused cultural visit for travellers interested in architecture, local history, and living religious traditions.

The name is associated with the idea of the owner or protector of land. Local cultural sources describe the temple as a place connected with farmers who work dry fields and plantations, making fertility and protection central themes. Its exact early history should be treated carefully because sources do not establish every detail with certainty. What is clear is the site's cultural importance and the quality of its surviving decorative work.

Carvings and architecture

The temple's entrance, courtyards, raised platforms, guardian figures, and narrative reliefs reward close observation. The stone is densely decorated with plant forms, figures, and scenes connected with Balinese religious and cultural imagination. One especially famous relief shows a person riding a bicycle. Local and cultural accounts associate the image with the historical presence and influence of Dutch artist W.O.J. Nieuwenkamp, but visitors should treat interpretations of the figure as interpretation rather than absolute proof.

Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 1
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 1

Look at the reliefs as part of the wider temple design instead of searching only for the bicycle panel. Large forms, deep carving, stairways, and the arrangement of shrines show how north Bali's visual language differs from familiar southern examples. Do not touch carvings, climb platforms, or use sacred structures as props. A local guide can add context without interrupting worship.

Respectful temple visits

Pura Maduwe Karang remains an active sacred complex. Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, use a sarong when required, and stay within areas open to visitors. Ask permission before photographing ceremonies, offerings, worshippers, or close details inside a courtyard. If a ceremony is taking place, follow the instructions of temple attendants even when access is temporarily restricted.

Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 2
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 2
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 5
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 5

Walk carefully on steps and uneven paving, keep children close, and avoid bringing exposed food into the temple grounds. Do not remove flowers, stones, or other objects. Keep noise low and take rubbish with you. The best photographs are made patiently from permitted areas, without blocking paths or asking worshippers to repeat an action.

Planning a north Bali route

The temple is in Kubutambahan, east of Singaraja, and can be reached by car or motorbike. Road traffic and weathe

Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 3
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 3
r affect travel time, so build a flexible route. Pura Beji Sangsit offers another Buleleng temple known for decorative heritage, while Gedong Kirtya Library provides a different perspective on the region's written culture. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a separate highland destination and should not be treated as a nearby stop without checking the map.

Confirm current opening arrangements, dress requirements, ceremony information, and photography rules before travelling. Facilities may be limited compared with major tourist attractions. Allow time for a calm visit and support local caretakers through the appropriate entry or donation process.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Pura Maduwe Karang?

Pura Maduwe Karang is in Kubutambahan District, Buleleng Regency, North Bali.

What is the temple known for?

It is known for elaborate north Balinese carvings, agricultural associations, and a famous relief depicting a person riding a bicycle.

Is the bicycle relief real?

The relief is a documented feature of the temple. Interpretations of th

Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 4
Pura Maduwe Karang Bali 4
e rider's identity and meaning should be presented as local or scholarly interpretations, not as certain fact.

Is the temple still active?

Yes. It is a living temple, so ceremonies and religious rules can affect access and photography.

What should visitors wear?

Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees and use a sarong when requested. Follow instructions from temple attendants.

Can I touch the carvings?

No. Observe from permitted areas and do not touch, climb, or lean on carvings and sacred structures.

Pura Maduwe Karang is best experienced as both an artful heritage site and a living temple. Take time to read the stonework, respect the community, and let local guidance shape the visit.

What to See & Do at Pura Maduwe Karang

Famous bas-relief of a cyclist with lotus-flower wheels — unique in Balinese temple art
Densely carved panels of Ramayana and Mahabharata narrative scenes
Outstanding example of North Bali temple architecture and stone carving tradition
Dedicated to agricultural spirits protecting dryland (non-irrigated) crops
Easily accessible on the north coast road east of Singaraja

What to Know Before You Go

Cyclist Relief Ask a guide or temple caretaker to point out the bicycle carving — it's easy to miss
Dress Code Sarong required — available at the entrance
Time Allow at least an hour to properly examine the carved reliefs — they reward close attention
Guide A local guide significantly enhances the visit by identifying characters in the relief stories

What Our Guests Say

Real Guest Reviews

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from 24 Google reviews
RussiaKudo90

RussiaKudo90

Google Review

5

I’m happy to leave this review because I know Made personally, and I can honestly say he’s one of the best guides and kindest people you’ll meet in Bali. What makes him special isn’t just his deep knowledge of the island – though that alone is impressive. He knows all the hidden gems, the best times to visit popular spots, and always has interesting stories behind every temple and rice terrace. But more than that, he genuinely cares about the people he’s with. He doesn't treat it like a job; he treats it like he's showing his own friends around his home. I’ve seen how he goes out of his way to make sure everything runs smoothly, how he checks in on comfort and safety, and how he handles any little issue with a smile. He's reliable, patient, and incredibly warm-hearted. If you're looking for someone who will not only show you beautiful places but also make you feel welcome and looked after – Made is your guy. I truly hope this comment helps him, because he absolutely deserves more recognition. Thank you, Made, for being the amazing person and guide that you are! 🙏🇮🇩

A month ago
Leah Davidson

Leah Davidson

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5

The Best Tour Guide in Bali! We honestly couldn’t recommend Made enough! From start to finish, he was absolutely fantastic and went above and beyond to make our trip around Bali so special. Before we even arrived, Made’s communication was amazing. He helped us plan our whole trip, gave us fantastic advice and recommendations, and really took the time to understand what we wanted to see and do. He made everything so easy and stress-free for us. Throughout our trip, Made looked after us incredibly well. He picked us up, took us to all the different places we wanted to visit, and even showed us some amazing places we probably wouldn’t have found ourselves. His knowledge of Bali is incredible — he knew so much about every place we visited and was always happy to explain things and answer our questions. What really stood out to us was how kind, caring and genuine Made was. He didn’t just feel like a tour guide; we genuinely felt like we were being looked after by a friend. He always made sure we were comfortable, safe and enjoying ourselves, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. Everyone in his team was also absolutely fantastic. They were friendly, professional and made us feel so welcome throughout our trip. Made played such a huge part in making our Bali holiday so memorable. If you’re looking for someone who is reliable, knowledgeable, kind and genuinely cares about giving you the best possible experience, we would 100% recommend him. Thank you so much, Made, for looking after us and helping us have such an amazing time in Bali. We’ll definitely be recommending you to anyone visiting Bali — and hopefully we’ll see you again one day! ❤️🇮🇩

A month ago
Max Maxvik

Max Maxvik

Google Review

5

Excellent, the driver is responsible, punctual, drives well, knows a lot of places to relax, the sights of Bali, speaks Russian, English and Chinese well.

A month ago
Софья Меркулова

Софья Меркулова

Google Review

5

Очень советую Мади в качестве гида. Он организовывал нам тур на Нусу Пениду, у него много друзей, который организуют вам все что угодно за очень выгодную плату. Мади очень дружелюбный и улыбчивый человек, он знает русский язык, поэтому с ним можно разговаривать и узнавать многое про Бали. Я его всем советую в первую очередь, он может показать вам весь остров и организовать туры на другие соседние острова и вулканы. Спасибо ему большое, нам очень понравилось с ним проводить время. Советуем вам выбрать именно его за его труд, старания и доброжелательность Мади, спасибо тебе ❤️

7 months ago
GEDE BMTHAMV

GEDE BMTHAMV

Google Review

5

Thanks a lot

8 months ago
Валерия Келейникова

Валерия Келейникова

Google Review

5

Thank you for a great day in Ubud, Madi 🙏🏻 We really enjoyed our cozy and interesting trip)

A year ago
Р М

Р М

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Bakhtiyar Azagov

Bakhtiyar Azagov

Google Review

5

Thank you for hospitality! We enjoy our travel in Bali with you Excatly Mr Burteh! He is best tour guide and driver in Bali. Mr Murteh is local, thats why he has to much information about Bali Perfect

A year ago
Elena Toroshniak

Elena Toroshniak

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5

Нам повезло, что знакомы с Маде. Это самый добрый и искренний человек на Бали

A year ago
Vit Mit

Vit Mit

Google Review

5

Путешествие на Бали – это всегда погружение в мир красоты, духовности и уникальной культуры. Но по-настоящему раскрыть душу острова, прочувствовать его магию можно только с опытным и увлеченным проводником. Нам в этом невероятно повезло – мы встретили Маде! Маде – не просто гид, он настоящий хранитель традиций и наследник балийской культуры. Он открыл нам не только знаменитые достопримечательности, но и тайные уголки острова, поделился своими знаниями о древних обычаях и верованиях. Благодаря Маде мы смогли: * Почувствовать энергетику священных храмов: Маде рассказал нам об истории и значении каждого храма, помог правильно провести церемонии и почувствовать связь с духовным миром Бали. * Погрузиться в атмосферу балийской деревни: мы побывали в гостях у местных жителей, познакомились с их бытом, попробовали традиционные блюда и даже приняли участие в мастер-классах по ремеслам. * Насладиться природными красотами: Маде показал нам живописные рисовые террасы, вулканы, водопады и секретные пляжи, где можно было отдохнуть от шума и суеты. Но самое главное – Маде подарил нам незабываемые эмоции, искреннее общение и теплоту. Он отвечал на все наши вопросы, учитывал наши пожелания и создавал атмосферу настоящего приключения. Мы безгранично благодарны Маде за это удивительное путешествие! Он помог нам открыть для себя настоящий Бали – остров Богов, красоты и гармонии. Если вы планируете поездку на Бали, обязательно обратитесь к Маде – он сделает ваше путешествие незабываемым!

A year ago
Галина Бардымова

Галина Бардымова

Google Review

5

Мадэ очень классный, дружелюбный и общительный, интересно рассказывает) Ждет когда нужно, в общем, очень приятный) рекомендую Можно обо всем договориться) если будет дождь, он сопровождает с зонтиком)

A year ago
Инна Звездина

Инна Звездина

Google Review

5

Спасибо большое, мы объехали за один день все прекрасные пляжи 😍 Остались очень довольны и будем рекомендовать друзьям 🙏🏻✨

A year ago
ЖАННА

ЖАННА

Google Review

5

Хотим от всего сердца поблагодарить нашего гида Маде. Наше путешествие по Бали было незабываемо! Благодаря вам мы познакомились с этой чудесной страной! Нас не только возили по районам, но и рассказывали историю Бали❤️ мы чувствовали себя в полной безопасности и полную заботу о нас. Благодарим и до встречи вновь на Бали🫶🏻

A year ago
Карина Ревазян

Карина Ревазян

Google Review

5

Veryyyy good

A year ago
Влад Хайбулин

Влад Хайбулин

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
細野佳代子

細野佳代子

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Alex Alex

Alex Alex

Google Review

5

Очень рекомендую этого русскоговорящего балийца! 👍 Экскурсии с ним - это просто супер! 🤩 Он не только рассказывает интересные факты об острове и показывает самые красивые места, но и делится местными фишками, о которых не прочитаешь в путеводителях. 😉 Он очень внимательный и отзывчивый, с ним легко и приятно общаться.

2 years ago
Евгений Ширшин

Евгений Ширшин

Google Review

5

Маде добряк!) очень внимательный, и профессиональный гид! Уже много лет дружим с ним! Провез по всем уголкам прекрасного Бали! Хорошо говорит на русском и английском языках! Аккуратно водит машину! Очень адекватные цены на экскурсии!! Знает все вкусные и красивые места! Поможет со всеми вопросами на Бали, такие как аренда скутера, или аренда жилья! Встретит и проводит в аэропорт, если вы с ребенком то у Маде прекрасные дочки которые с удовольствием побуду няней!)) Всем рекомендую это агенство!!

2 years ago
Сергей Милых

Сергей Милых

Google Review

5

No written review.

2 years ago
Denise

Denise

Google Review

5

Made did an amazing job as a guide! Comfortable pick-up & drop-off, safe driving, very friendly & helpful, explained a lot while driving & visiting the spots. He knows a lot and is happy to answer any questions! He also brought local fruits for testing! Amazing day, thank you so much! 🙏🏼🫶🏼🧡

2 years ago
Stijn Heerze

Stijn Heerze

Google Review

5

Really nice and kind guide. Knows a lot about Bali. Also a very good driver.

2 years ago
Juliette Bos

Juliette Bos

Google Review

5

Very nice driver, good communication and good service. Perfect!

2 years ago
Nengah Negare

Nengah Negare

Google Review

5

This company is the best, good driver and pofesional guide, i am very enjoy visiting Bali island 👍👍👍

2 years ago
Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Google Review

5

Sakuraba give me best service treveling in bali. Thakyou very much for guide bali sakuraba

2 years ago

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